In many parts of the world, plastic waste accumulation is a significant issue, including the area around Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Traditionally, excess plastic has occasionally been burnt, but this practice is harmful to both people and the environment. 

Ele-Collection is an organisation working on collecting and recycling plastic waste around Victoria Falls. The goal is to expand the project to cover the entire Kaza area (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Park, the world’s second-largest conservation area). 

The organisation was established against a grim backdrop. 

For centuries, humans and elephants have coexisted peacefully in the Victoria Falls region. Elephants occasionally wander into the town, but local residents have always gently guided them back out. 

This changed in 2021. 

Two local men were attacked by a large bull elephant. They escaped with their lives, but it was agreed by all that the elephant’s aggressive behaviour was very unusual. 

Shortly after, another bull elephant attacked a local man, who unfortunately lost his life in the encounter. The elephant was also injured and had to be put down. 

During the autopsy of the elephant, vast amounts of plastic were found in its stomach, making it clear that the aggressive behaviour of the two elephants was caused by its pain. Local forces united to remove all plastic from the area to prevent similar incidents. Ele-Collection became a reality. 

The organisation works practically by collecting plastic. They primarily employ women, including single mothers who often have no other sources of income. The women collect plastic and receive cash based on the amount they gather. They call it ‘Trash for Cash’. The plastic is recycled in more-sustainable ways and is even converted into building materials. 

In collaboration with our local partner in the area, we have made an agreement that for each booking TourCompass makes to the Kaza area, we will donate $10 to the project. The donation is not added to the customer’s price – instead, if you purchase a tour to the area, we will donate money directly to the project.